Katsushika (Fukao) Hokui (active c. 1830-60s)
During a raging thunderstorm Minamoto Yoshitsune, warrior monk Benkei an and companion warriors are fighting against the attacking ghosts of the perished Heike clan, led by the of ghost of Taira no Kiyomori. The Minamoto ship is to shaken by giant waves and dramatic lightning bolts are crossing the scene. An episode from the Heike monogatari (battle of Dannoura, in 1185).
Title: 摂州 大物 浦 平家 怨霊 顕る 図 – Sesshû Daimotsu (no) ura Heike onryô arawaru zu (The Ghosts of the Heike appearing in
Daimotsu Bay in Settsu Province)
Signature: Hokui ga
Publisher: Kazusaya Iwazô, Edo
Consors: Mera, Murata
Date: 1847-50
Size: Oban triptych, c. 34,6 x 72,6 cms overall
Excellent impression and colour. Three separate, unbacked sheets, slightly trimmed. Some minor paper defects and small expert repairs; two small printing-related colour stains. Overall very nice condition.
A rare and extremely dramatic warrior triptych by Hokui, a little known artist who was a pupil of the great Hokusai: In its turbulent action it even surpasses Kuniyoshi’s a earlier depiction (Robinson T 70) of the same scene.
Compare MFA Boston, Bigelow Coll., No. 11.37167a-c; Art Institute of Chicago, No. 1990.607.404; Lyon Collection.
sold